Meet the Locals

We’re not the only ones who love our city! Our residents do, too. This year we're featuring Len Pfifer, a resident who has called Merriam home for 50 years! The locals are the very best people to ask about Merriam, so enjoy this sampling of Len's local favorites!

Len Pfeifer

Tell us a little about yourself:

I grew up in Aurora, a small town in north central Kansas, and graduated from high school in 1961. I moved to Salina and met and married Liz in 1965. We had a daughter and moved to the metro area in 1969, where I worked at Nazarene Publishing House. I retired from there after 40 years. Our son came along in 1971.

I enjoy volunteering at church, working on my 1931 Chevy street rod, and spending time with my kids, their spouses, and five grandkids. I like my grandkids to see where their mom and dad grew up. I also enjoy visiting with people in our neighborhood.

Your top three words to describe Merriam? Convenient, friendly, home.

How long have you lived in Merriam?

My wife and I, and our two kids, moved to Merriam in December 1972. The kids were 5 1/2 and 1 1/2. My wife passed in 2016, but I continue to live in the same house today.

What makes Merriam so special?

The friendly people. I know people at the community center by name — those working at the desk and others who come to exercise. I also enjoy the neighborhood I live in.

Memorable Merriam moments in your lifetime:

• Four of my five grandkids were born in Merriam.

• When my wife passed in 2016, the hearse and funeral procession drove past our house on the way to the cemetery. Some of the neighbors put a red balloon in their driveway to honor her memory and show me support. One of the neighbors put a small bouquet of white balloons on our driveway. Many neighbors stood in their driveways and waved as we drove past. It was very special.